Rails-to-Trails Conservancy’s Trail Nation Collaborative recently published new guidance on trail accessibility as well as numerous upcoming funding opportunities for trails-focused organizations.
New Accessibility Guidance for Trails
The Access Board’s recent finalization of the Public Rights-of-Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROWAG) marks a significant milestone in enhancing inclusivity and accessibility for all individuals. These guidelines inform federal, state and local government agencies on how to make their pedestrian facilities, such as shared-use paths (which include rail-trails) sidewalks, crosswalks and on-street parking, accessible to people with disabilities.
Learn More:
- The Access Board’s website / read the published rules
- Rails-to-Trails Conservancy’s website to explore more information about accessibility
- Read: Trail Moments – Adventure for All: Advocating for Accessible Outdoor Spaces, RTC
- Read: World Record Holder Sets Out on 475-Mile Wheelchair Trek on the Great American Rail-Trail, RTC
Upcoming Trails-Related Funding Opportunities
APPLY NOW: Prize for Cities (WRI)Deadline: Tuesday, Sept. 26
- The World Resources Institute (WRI) invites you to apply for their Prize for Cities, with $350,000 available and this year’s theme being “Accelerating Momentum for Climate-Ready Communities.” Submissions should focus on building resilience, reducing risks and leveraging new opportunities, especially for vulnerable communities. Learn more and apply here.
APPLY NOW: Reconnecting Communities and Neighbors Program (USDOT)Deadline: Thursday, Sept. 28, 11:59 p.m. EDT
- The USDOT’s Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Program funds both planning and construction projects, including trail and active transportation projects; projects in historically disadvantaged communities are encouraged to apply. Learn more about each program on our website and review the notice of funding opportunity here.
FY 2023 Thriving Communities Program (USDOT)Deadline: Wednesday, Nov. 15, 4:59 EST
- The FY 2023 Thriving Communities Program (TCP) opportunity for communities to receive technical assistance is now open in the summer of 2023. USDOT will be hosting a webinar for communities interested in receiving technical assistance on Sept. 27 at 3 p.m. EDT. More information and webinar registration links can be found on the TCP website.
OPENING SOON: Rural Surface Transportation Program (USDOT)
- The Rural Surface Transportation Grant (RSTG) program provides $2 billion over five fiscal years to support projects that will improve and expand surface transportation infrastructure in rural areas—with the goal of increasing connectivity, improving the safety and reliability of the movement of people and freight, and generating regional economic growth and improved quality of life. Learn more on our website and review former awardees.